Apple Returns to All-Virtual WWDC Format for Second Year
The Event Will Run June 7-11, with a Focus on Accessibility and Innovation
In a move that comes as no surprise given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Apple has announced that it will be returning to an all-virtual format for its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) for the second consecutive year. The event, which typically brings together thousands of developers from around the world in person, will now take place online from June 7-11.
A Virtual Event That’s "Biggest and Best Yet"
"We are working to make WWDC21 our biggest and best yet, and are excited to offer Apple developers new tools to support them as they create apps that change the way we live, work, and play," said Susan Prescott, Vice President of Developer Relations at Apple, in a statement tied to the announcement. The virtual format has its advantages, with accessibility being at the top of the list. Last year’s event was a huge success, with Apple reporting that it was their "biggest ever," and they expect roughly 28 million developers from around the world to attend this year.
The Benefits of Going Virtual
The shift to an online-only format has several benefits for both Apple and its developers. For one, it eliminates the need for traveling, which can be a significant burden, especially considering the South Bay hotel crunch. Additionally, the company offers free access to the event for all qualified developers, making it more inclusive than ever.
A Week’s Worth of Developer-Themed Programming
The virtual WWDC will feature a week’s worth of developer-themed programming, including keynote addresses, sessions, and labs. The event spans Apple’s different operating systems, bringing new versions of iOS/iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. Last year’s event delivered the big, long-awaited arrival of Apple’s transition to first-party silicon for its Macs, and this year could have some surprises on the hardware front.
Hardware News and Surprises
While hardware news has been fairly hit or miss at WWDC in recent years, Apple could have some exciting announcements up its sleeve. After a bottleneck in H1 2020, the company may be looking to revamp its hardware offerings. With the shift to online-only events, it’s easier for Apple to introduce new products and technologies without being constrained by physical limitations.
The Swift Student Challenge
In addition to the big keynote and developer-themed programming, Apple hosts several other events during WWDC, including the Swift Student Challenge. This competition focuses on young coders and provides a platform for them to showcase their skills. The company also uses this opportunity to donate to various initiatives, with $1 million being donated to SJ Aspires, an education initiative based in San Jose.
A New Standard for Remote Presentations
Last year’s first virtual WWDC keynote set a new standard for remote presentations, and Apple is looking to build on that success. With the shift to online-only events, companies are having to get creative with their presentation formats. Apple’s efforts to make WWDC21 its "biggest and best yet" will undoubtedly be closely watched by the tech industry.
The Future of In-Person Events
While vaccine rollouts have begun in much of the world, the return of the in-person event industry still seems iffy for most of the rest of the year. Apple’s decision to stick with a virtual format may be a sign of things to come, at least until the pandemic is under control.
Conclusion
With WWDC21 set to run from June 7-11, developers and tech enthusiasts around the world are eagerly anticipating what Apple has in store for them. The company’s commitment to innovation and accessibility makes it an exciting time to be a part of the tech industry. As the shift to online-only events continues, we can expect to see even more creative and innovative presentations from companies like Apple.
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Sources
- Apple WWDC21 announcement
- Susan Prescott statement on WWDC21
- Various online sources and news articles
